The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X is here—and it’s unlike anything the brand has ever produced. A hybrid hypercar by American standards, this all-wheel-drive beast combines the ferocity of the ZR1’s twin-turbocharged V8 with the electrified sophistication of the E-Ray. But what does this game-changing Corvette actually cost? Here’s everything we know so far.
How Much Will the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Cost?
Chevrolet hasn’t officially disclosed the price of the ZR1X. However, industry experts and Corvette insiders estimate a starting range between $190,000 and $250,000. For context, the standard ZR1 starts at $174,995. Given the ZR1X’s cutting-edge hybrid tech and record-breaking performance, it is widely expected to become the most expensive Corvette in history.
Some projections even suggest a final sticker price of over $260,000, which would still be considered a bargain compared to European hypercars delivering similar performance specs.
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What Is the Horsepower of the Corvette ZR1X?
The ZR1X boasts a staggering 1,250 combined horsepower, making it the most powerful factory-built Corvette to date. This performance is achieved through the combination of:
- A twin-turbo 5.5-liter LT7 V8 engine, producing 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft of torque on its own.
- An upgraded front electric motor (from the E-Ray platform), adding 186 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.
The electric system has also been tuned to remain active until 160 mph (257 km/h), offering a significant edge in traction, torque delivery, and acceleration.
How Fast Is the 2026 Corvette ZR1X?
Chevy claims the Corvette ZR1X accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 2.0 seconds and completes the quarter-mile in less than 9.0 seconds, reaching trap speeds of over 150 mph. These are hypercar-level numbers—and Chevrolet says they are achievable even on unprepped surfaces.
The car’s all-wheel-drive hybrid system provides incredible grip, allowing the ZR1X to sustain over 1.0 G in both straight-line and lateral acceleration.
What Hybrid Technology Does It Use?
The ZR1X uses the same 1.9-kWh battery as the E-Ray, but with a 29% increase in usable energy and a higher operating voltage. This results in more powerful and sustained output from the front e-motor.
Key enhancements include:
- A “Push-to-Pass” system, moved to the steering wheel for quicker activation.
- Full deployment of 1,250 hp when performance traction modes are engaged.
- A reengineered AWD control system that improves both stability and driver engagement.
How Advanced Is Its Braking and Aerodynamics?
Anticipating the need to stop this monster, Chevrolet developed the J59 brake package—standard on the ZR1X. This includes:
- 10-piston front and 6-piston rear Alcon calipers
- 16.5-inch carbon-ceramic rotors, the largest ever on a Corvette
- Up to 1.9 G of deceleration from 180 to 120 mph
In terms of aerodynamics, there are two setups:
- The standard Touring chassis comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and a street-oriented suspension.
- The ZTK Performance Package adds stiffer springs, Michelin Cup 2R tires, carbon-fiber aero upgrades, and a massive rear wing that helps generate up to 1,206 lbs (547 kg) of downforce at top speed.
What Does the Interior Look Like?
The interior of the ZR1X remains largely consistent with other 2026 Corvette models. Notable updates include:
- A 14.0-inch digital instrument cluster
- A 12.7-inch center touchscreen
- An additional 6.6-inch display to the left of the driver, managing PTM modes and head-up display settings
Chevrolet has streamlined the interface by removing the C8’s infamous “wall of buttons” and repositioning climate controls under the center screen, offering a cleaner and more modern layout.
When Will the Corvette ZR1X Be Released?
Production of the ZR1X is scheduled to begin by the end of 2025, with customer deliveries expected in Q4 of the same year. As of now, Chevrolet has not opened official order books. Enthusiasts eager to reserve one should reach out to their preferred dealer as soon as possible.
Is the ZR1X the Most Extreme Corvette Ever?
Undoubtedly, yes. The 2026 Corvette ZR1X isn’t just another high-performance variant—it represents a new era. With hypercar-level speed, all-wheel-drive hybrid capability, and an extensive suite of driving technologies, the ZR1X redefines what a Corvette can be.
While the nameplate is new, many believe this is the long-anticipated Corvette Zora, named after Zora Arkus-Duntov, the father of the original Corvette. This model fulfills the vision of a no-compromise, American-made, track-ready supercar.
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